The Nha Trang Dolphins will join the Vietnam Basketball Association when the fifth season tips off this May.

Photo via Nha Trang Dolphin Facebook Page.

The Khanh Hoa-based ballers will join the six other teams representing Saigon, Hanoi, Can Tho and Da Nang, according to VnExpress. The city on the central coast was reported to be in line for a team last year, but plans fell through at the last minute. The league originally began with five teams, and in its third season, another team was added in Hanoi.

The 2019 VBA season ended in September with the Saigon Heat besting the Can Tho Catfish by a thrilling single point in the final game of the best-of-five championship series. In the interim between seasons, many of the VBA athletes play in other tournaments, including the SEA Games. 

Since its founding, the VBA has attracted widespread support and grown in popularity, although the pay and accolades for the athletes don't mirror those of professionals in other nations.

Correction: A previous version of this article stated that the new team would be named Nha Trang Navy. It was announced on February 13 that its official name will be Nha Trang Dolphins instead.